Let’s face it: in general, we rarely accept things as they are. We’ve even managed to control the temperature, albeit just indoors for now, but who knows?

And as summer arrives along with unwelcome sweaty shirts and the sun determined to torment humanity, millions of people across the metro will seek comfort in this miracle-in-a-box — the Air Conditioner.

Modern Air Conditioners are products of years of technical research in cooling, thermodynamics, regulation, and energy efficiency. In a survey of mechanical engineers in 2000, air conditioning/refrigeration was considered one of the 20th century’s top ten mechanical engineering accomplishments.

Air conditioning may be traced back to Ding Huane, a Chinese engineer who created a manually operated rotary fan in the second century. The idea of air cooling even piqued the interest of Benjamin Franklin, the renowned American inventor and politician who experimented with evaporation and alcohol to achieve freezing temperatures in 1758.

Willis Haviland Carrier, a talented engineer who began working with the rules of humidity management to address an industrial problem at a printing facility in Brooklyn, New York, produced the first practical air Conditioner in 1902. Carrier’s method, borrowed from older mechanical refrigeration technologies, routed air via coils full of cold water, chilling the air while also removing moisture to adjust room humidity.

While comfort was the primary motive behind this invention, its use has had other significant benefits to people’s lives. And if you’re looking for something to show your wife or husband to justify acquiring an air conditioner, here it is!

8 Benefits of Using Air Conditioners

As mentioned, these trusted appliances do far more than just keep your room cool. Over the years, we’ve seen how air conditioners have helped people’s lives. Here are eight more reasons to get yourself one if you haven’t already.

1. Reduced Risk Of Asthma Attacks

The use of an air conditioner not only decreases humidity in your house but can also minimize pollen, mold, mildew, and other airborne outside allergens that can trigger asthma symptoms.

Air conditioners can also reduce your exposure to dust mites and other indoor allergies. On a side note, replacing the air filter with the air conditioner regularly is another vital part of preventing asthma triggers.

2. Exercise in a Cool Environment

Air conditioning can promote your indoor exercise habits by creating a cool and pleasant atmosphere. 

3. Insects and Parasites are Less Prevalent

Did you know that air conditioning may keep fleas off your dog? Air conditioner filters are more efficient than open windows at keeping pests out. This not only keeps your house clean but also protects you and your pets.

4. Improved Sleep

We’ve already discovered that there are several ways to improve your sleep, one of which is to keep your bedroom chilly.

5. Prevents Overheating of Electronics

Excessive heat may cause substantial harm to mobile devices and computers, reducing their lifespan and causing data loss. Air conditioners may prevent this from happening.

6. Enhances Work performance

Have you ever been to one of those workdays where everything seems to take forever because it’s so hot and humid? That’s something that air conditioning can help with! Air conditioning may improve your comfort level while working, which keeps your thoughts fresh and ready to handle your daily duties.

7. Dehydration Risk Is Reduced

As the temperature rises, so does the rate of perspiration. We are all aware that sweating causes us to lose a significant portion of our bodies’ water. Air conditioners prevent unwanted sweating, thus reducing the risk of dehydration.

8. Lowers The Chances Of Heatstroke

Heatstroke has claimed the lives of thousands of people. While not exactly a common occurrence, there are areas and seasons where this is a serious risk. Install an air conditioner if you live in a severely hot region to prevent this, especially for the elderly.

Where to Buy Air Conditioners

So you’ve decided to buy an air conditioner for yourself, perhaps because your previous one broke down or because it’s your first time, and the heat is getting to you.

It’s crucial to remember that when purchasing a significant item like an air conditioner, you should only buy from reputable retailers to avoid receiving a subpar machine. When you consider how an air conditioner affects your living circumstances and, as a result, your health, purchasing from shady vendors is a significant risk.

Here are some of the most respected appliance retailers in the country. 

1. Concepstore

Concepstore is, at its heart, a fully stocked online appliance store that is always ready to meet your home and electrical appliance needs. ConcepStore by Concepcion Industries gathers new and innovative appliances and gadgets from top brands together in one place. Thanks to their local operations, you may anticipate your purchase to arrive within 24 hours after confirming your payment. Their guarantee is also rather extensive. You are entitled to a complete and free replacement within one year if your product breaks or is deemed to be faulty. All Concepstore products are genuine manufacturers’ products that have passed BPS Philippine Standard Safety Certification and SGS Fimko, Ltd. accreditation testing.

Concepstore also offers an incredible discount on their air conditioner units, and you shouldn’t miss it! (Exact offer to follow).

2. ShopSM

Well, this one is a no-brainer. Big box stores like SM will likely provide the most extensive collection, comprehensive warranties, and service options. Simply walk into one of their numerous stores, and you’re sure to be met with an endless array of options. That’s the thing about this retail giant- it’s everywhere. Moreover, SM might also be the most flexible when it comes to payment options.

3. Abenson

Abenson is an electronics retailer with a massive online presence. What sets them apart is that they have an official Abenson Viber Community, and their site, abenson.com is available for your appliance needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Viber shopping is like conversing with your own personal shopper. Of course, if internet shopping isn’t your thing, you can always go into one of their stores and shop safely. Abenson also accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards and other types of financing.

4. Second-Hand Dealers

If you’re on a limited budget but need an air conditioner immediately, it might be a good idea to scout for units carried by used appliance dealers. But before doing so, you must consider the pros and cons of buying such units. 

Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Air Conditioner

For most people, the choice to acquire an air conditioning unit is followed by the question of “Should I go for a brand new or a second-hand unit?” 

If you are facing such a dilemma, and it has kept you up for one too many nights, this section below may help ease you of indecision. So take a break from overthinking and read this little guide. (You can always resume overthinking after!) Here, we have put together the pros and cons of buying a used air conditioner to help you make a wiser, more practical decision.

Pros of Buying a Used A/C Unit

1. They’re obviously less expensive.

Second-hand air conditioners, like any other appliance, are often cheaper than brand new ones. For people on a tight budget, such as those starting a family, used air conditioners are a great option. The price gap could be enormous at times, especially if you find someone who’s moving out and wants to get rid of his stuff immediately. You can scour social media sites and auction sites for such listings.

2. They’re perfect for short-term use.

Second-hand air conditioners are excellent purchases for people who only need them for a short period of time. If you’re renting and don’t plan on staying in the same building for long, or if you want to make your college dorm room cozier while you’re there, a second-hand air conditioner is definitely a good call.

Cons of Buying A Used Air Conditioner

1. Warranty coverage is limited or non-existent.

In most circumstances, used AC units’ warranty term has ended or is soon to expire. If that’s the case, you’re probably buying older equipment that will require a lot of care and maintenance.

If the longevity of the unit is your primary concern, we suggest you go to reputable dealers of used appliances instead of direct owners. Granted, prices might take a bit of a hike, but in return, you can be sure they have technicians that have thoroughly checked the unit before selling it to you. After all, these businesses are unlikely to jeopardize their own name by selling you faulty merchandise.

2. Some used units aren’t exactly eye candy.

For some, this may be a minor worry, but for others, an old-looking air conditioner might damage their interior décor. If you’re looking for a unit that has a fresher look to it, then it is best to purchase a new one. Used units may have visible dents, scrape marks, or fading color, which, although not affecting performance, may be an eyesore in the room.

3. Spare parts might be unavailable.

When purchasing a secondhand appliance, one of the most prevalent issues is the inability to get the appliance’s exact spare components. The lack of availability of certain parts might be due to the model’s production ceasing or decreasing as more advanced versions hit the market. Because obtaining replacement parts can be difficult and time-consuming, it is critical that you thoroughly research the model, its components, and their availability before actually purchasing it.

If you happen to have a used A/C or you’re looking to buy a specific, used unit, you can check out our services here to see how our outstanding appliance specialists can assist you with the procurement of spare parts.

4. They often require more maintenance.

This one is quite a no-brainer. Because of lack or limited warranty, older units may incur higher maintenance costs, and they may require fixing regularly. Look for devices that are in near-new condition to prevent this. Although they are a bit more expensive, they are a worthwhile investment, especially when compared to the expense of fixing an older machine from time to time.

A Quick Guide Before Buying a Used Air Conditioner

Suppose you’ve decided that a used air conditioner is really the most practical choice for you at the moment. Remember, though, even if it’s used, it’s still a considerable investment. To help you avoid squandering money, we’ve put up a comprehensive set of steps that you may read before handing over your cash.

1. Check the exact model online.

Once you’ve zeroed in on a specific used A/C, get ahold of its exact model and year, and search the internet for specifics. You might go to the manufacturer’s website and see any reviews from other people who possess the same model.

Reviews provide you with a quick overview of the unit’s features, operation, and efficiency. Some reviews will also give you extra information on the model’s parts, as well as the model’s potential faults. Compare the unit to the most recent model to see which features are missing from the earlier one.

You may also look for further information about the item in various appliance forums and even in social media groups. If you see a pattern of complaints about the item, it’s possible that it’s a production flaw, and you’d be better off looking at alternatives. If everything looks good online, move on to the next step.

2. Examine the filters for damage.

Once the item is physically accessible for inspection, the filters should be the first thing you examine. The filters in question here must be well-maintained, in good working order with no evidence of substantial wear and tear, and of course, free of dust.

3. Make sure the refrigerant levels are correct.

It’s critical to check the unit’s refrigerant level because compared to modern units, older ones are more likely to have low refrigerant levels. Low refrigerant levels might interfere with the unit’s operation, causing heating and compressor damage. This will necessitate more energy to cool your room, resulting in higher electricity expenses. Check to ensure that the refrigerant level in the device is kept within safe limits and that there is no leakage in the lines that may harm the compressor.

4. Check the noise level.

Long-term use of loud and noisy equipment may be upsetting and negatively impact our sleep and health. The less noise the unit makes, the better. For technical purposes, the noise it emits should not be above 50 decibels or close to the noise a healthy refrigerator makes.

5. Use the unit for a quick evaluation.

Check the unit’s capacity to cool the room and adequately distribute the heat outside by turning it on. The following items should be included in your inspection of the unit:

-Parts are inspected for wear and tear, as well as dust and other contaminants.

-Any noise that indicates a problem with the compressor or other components of the equipment.

-Unit conditions, such as functional knobs, digital display, electrical cables, etc.

Types of Air Conditioners

While no one is keeping you from walking into one of the stores listed above, it’s always a good idea to do some further research to determine precisely what you need. Otherwise, you might waste time trying to decide which one to buy, especially while they’re all sparkling and glistening inside the store.

There are many various types of air conditioners, and picking which one is right for you or your family comes down to cost and which model best fits your needs and your house or space.

1. Central Aircon

This form of air conditioning is ideal if you have a substantially large home and want to chill numerous rooms at once. 

The split aspect denotes that the mechanism comprises two primary components. The condenser and compressor are housed outside, while the evaporator coils and air handler are indoors. Like any other air conditioner, central air conditioning uses refrigerant to remove heat from the interior air. Cool air is brought in through the ducts to replace the heat that has been drawn from the inside.

Pros:

• It cools all the areas attached to ducts simultaneously, resulting in a cooler, more controlled climate throughout the house in the shortest amount of time.
• Because cold air is circulated throughout the house, humidity is minimized, making the entire atmosphere more comfortable.

Cons:

• It uses a lot of electricity, which means increased utility costs.
• If an issue occurs in the ducts, the machine may lose efficiency.
• Some people find the outside unit unattractive.

2. Ductless Mini-Split

If you want higher efficiency but don’t want to deal with a lot of ductwork or only want to chill a single portion of your home, mini-split air conditioners are an excellent option. 

An air conditioner of this sort is made up of an outside unit with a condenser and a compressor, plus one or more inside components. These indoor units typically are wall-mounted and come with integrated air blowers. The interior and exterior units are linked by tubing, and refrigerant flows differently depending on the kind of consumption.

Because they’re usually compact, each room typically has its own unit, which may be used for either heating or cooling. These air conditioners are considered substantially more energy-efficient than some of the other alternatives available. Still, they can be expensive if you intend on putting one in each room to cover the entire house.

Pros:

• It can be installed in any room without the need for ducting or a lot of effort.
• It can manage the temperature of each room separately.

Cons:

• For big homes, one ductless mini-split unit is insufficient.
• Because it’s wall-mounted, the indoor unit may ruin the room’s interior design.

3. Window- Type Aircon

Window types are ideal for cooling a single room or a small area since they come in various sizes. You may even use a single large model of window-type air conditioners if you have a single story or one open room. Since its inception, window-type air conditioners have been dubbed “champions of cooling tiny rooms” and are the most common ones sold today.

A window-type air conditioner is a single device that contains all of its components. It breathes cold air into the room from its interior side and unloads heat through its exterior rear. The filter on these air conditioners usually pulls out, allowing it to be cleaned regularly for maximum health and efficiency. These air conditioners include onboard controls and typically come with remote control.

Pros:

• Window-type units are often less expensive to purchase and use.
• They’re easy to set up and maintain.
• They don’t take up too much of your floor space.

Cons:

• They might be noisy and are visible from the exterior of the house.
• They block the view from a window and demand to be placed near an electrical outlet.
• Some window-type air conditioners are not suitable for oddly shaped windows; hence they demand some renovation.

4. Portable Aircon

Window-type air conditioners and portable air conditioners are generally similar. They are both typically contained within a single unit with all of its components encased, except that the portable one is a free-standing device that can be transported from room to room. It requires a power source to operate and access a window through which the unit’s air may be vented via a connected tube.

If you need temporary space cooling and installing a window or split-type isn’t feasible, consider a portable air conditioner. They’re very handy, and smaller models of this may even be utilized in kennels or restrooms. Single-hose portable air conditioners take air from within a room and exhaust it outside. Alternatively, a dual-hose system sucks air from the outside through one hose, cools the compressor, and then exhausts the air through the other hose.

Pros:

• It can be set up in no time.
• They may be effortlessly moved from room to room and do not need to be installed permanently.
• For single-space cooling, this is a very practical option.
• When not in use, it is very convenient to store.

Cons:

• During operation, these devices make a lot of noise.
• It might be incapable of cooling larger rooms.
• Portable units with hoses must be positioned near a window, and the hose might obstruct the view.

5. Floor Mounted Aircon

If you want a mini-split but don’t have the room for a wall-mounted unit, floor-mounted air conditioners are a great alternative. The indoor component of a floor-mounted air conditioner sits on the floor, while the exterior unit may be placed without any ducting or extensive site preparation. This setup is especially ideal for places with slanted walls, such as attics or structures made of delicate materials like glass.

The unit may be set up 6 inches above the floor and is connected to the outside unit by a tiny hole in the wall. The positioning of this air conditioner makes it very easy to check the air filters for maintenance.

Pros:

• Because of its accessibility, it is ideal for the elderly who live alone.
• Its installation is straightforward.
• It is an excellent alternative for small areas since it takes up very little space.

Cons:

• Impediments such as furniture can hamper airflow in the room.
• Due to the unequal and localized airflow dispersion, it is not ideal for large spaces.

Important Factors to Consider Before Buying an Air Conditioner

1. Size

Determine the unit to purchase based on the size of the space of the room you intend to use it in. For each square foot of living area, an air conditioner requires around 20-25 BTU. If a unit is too large and powerful for the room, you’ll waste energy; if it’s too weak, you’ll have to run it at full power all the time and never really feel cool enough. To guarantee comfort, measure your space and check your desired unit’s BTU rating, but err on the side of slightly bigger sizes.

2. Amperage

Many rooms feature circuits that are rated at a total of 15 amps. Take notice of the unit’s amps, which might range from 5 to 15 or more. The circuit breaker can be tripped by large air conditioners that use 12 to 15 amps. In that instance, a dedicated line may be required.

3. Dehumidification

This figure gives you an idea of how much moisture the device extracts from the air. It might be as little as 500ml per hour to as much as 5L. Higher-rate units are the ideal option for people who reside in high-humidity locations.

4. Efficiency

Look at the manufacturer’s Energy Efficiency Rating (EER), calculated by dividing the BTU  by the power consumption in watt-hours. The better the efficiency rating, the less money you’ll spend on power bills at home.

Features to Look for in an Aircon Model

Here are some key aircon features to look for when scouting for the perfect one. Needless to say, the more expensive models will have more features, so if you’re on a budget, look out for the features you’ll need the most.

1. Energy-saving switch

Even when the compressor is switched off, the air conditioner’s fan normally operates continuously. However, if you use an energy-saving switch, the fans will turn off when the compressor is turned off by the thermostat, saving you money in reduced electric bills.

2. “Check filter” light

It serves as a visual reminder to clean or replace the filter.

3. Vents that oscillate

An internal motor swings the unit’s airflow from side to side, more evenly cooling the space.

4. Remote control

This convenient feature allows you to change the temperature from wherever in the room. When your body temperature lowers in the middle of the night, this is a great way to raise the temperature/thermostat.

5. Sleep mode

This feature slightly raises the room’s temperature setting to avoid midnight chills. Get this if you live in places with a colder climate.

6. Timer

When you’re not home, the unit automatically switches on or off at a specified period, allowing a room to cool or heat up before you arrive.

7. Exhaust/ventilation

Allows fresh air from the outdoors to enter the room.

8. Manufacturer’s warranty

For components and labor, it usually lasts one to two years.

Installing Your New Aircon

While this guide aims to help you as much as it can, the people behind it simply don’t think a DIY aircon installation is a safe one unless you’re a certified or experienced technician yourself. This is true for most types of aircon anyway.

Most DIY jobs are stressful, but installing air conditioners is particularly difficult. Working with ductwork, moving heavy equipment, and ensuring wirings are done securely and correctly is time-consuming, especially if you’re not used to it.

Even if you have a bit of technical know-how to install an air conditioner, all of the electrical components increase the hazard. Paying for installation service by a qualified and certified professional can save you a lot of time and risk.

When it comes to this service, Teko is perhaps the finest in the market. You can conveniently book a service in three easy steps, and a technician will be sent right to your doorstep! Have your AC installed without ever having to leave the house.

All that being said, there is one type of aircon that you can actually install on your own, and that is the portable aircon. Here are some pointers on how to go about it.

Installing a Portable Aircon

Installing a portable air conditioner is simple as long as you have all of the necessary parts and your window is the correct size. You won’t need any advanced DIY abilities to do so. There’s a chance you’ll need a screwdriver, but that’s it.

1. Double-check that you have all of the necessary components.

Portable air conditioners draw in warm, humid air, chill and dehumidify it, and then recirculate it into the room. An exhaust vent is used to send the heat taken from the air back outdoors. This vent must be installed in an open window.

Most portable air conditioner models come with a window kit that closes off the remainder of the window, preventing cold air from escaping and hot air from entering.

2. Open the window by sliding it open. Place the sealing plate in the space between the windows and adjust the length to match the window.

3. Secure the sealing plate with a bolt or screw to keep its length constant. Close the door and the window.

4. Connect the air conditioner to the exhaust pipe. (This usually is in the unit’s rear.)

5. Connect the flat exhaust pipe nozzle to the exhaust pipe’s opposite end.

6. Insert the exhaust pipe nozzle into the window sealing plate after extending the exhaust pipe.

Safety Precautions For Using Your Aircon

It’s probably not your first time to use one of these, so some instruction on how to do so will be an insult to you. However, there might be ill-advised practices that we’re all accustomed to, which might harm your appliance and hurt its longevity. Consider this section a safety guideline when dealing with your machine.

For starters, it is advised that you read your owner’s manual before anything else, as most safety instructions are there, too. And while the precautions we are about to discuss will be of utmost importance, there might be instructions in those manuals that are brand-specific. So, do your due diligence. We understand that this sounds like a lot of work, but the return is being able to utilize your appliance for much longer and possibly even pass it down to the next generation. Please read the precautions below.

• This appliance should never be used by children below eight years old and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. 
• Children shall not play with the appliance. 
• Children shall not make cleaning and user maintenance without adult supervision. 
• Do not connect the air conditioner to a multi-purpose socket. Otherwise, it may cause a fire. 
• Do disconnect power supply when cleaning air conditioner as it may cause electric shock.
• If the supply cord is damaged, it must be immediately replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons to avoid a hazard. 
• Do not spray water on the indoor unit. It may cause an electric shock or malfunction. 
• After removing the filter, do not touch fins to avoid injury. 
• Do not use extreme heat or a hairdryer to dry the filter to avoid deformation.
• Maintenance must be performed by qualified professionals. 
• Do not attempt to repair the air conditioner by yourself. Contact your retailer or trusted service provider.
• Do not extend fingers or objects into the air inlet or air outlet.
• Do not block air outlet or air inlet.
• Do not spill liquid on the remote controller or submerge it in water.
• In case of the power cord overheating, abnormal sound during operation, or if the unit is giving off a burning smell, turn off the air conditioner and disconnect power immediately, and then contact the dealer or qualified professionals for service.
• When turning on or turning off the unit by emergency operation switch, please press this switch with an insulating object other than metal. 
• Do not step on the top panel of the outdoor unit or put heavy objects.

Diagnosis and Repair

As with human ailments, our appliances can show indications of underlying problems. While we recommend contacting your appliance service provider as soon as you spot a problem with your air conditioner, there are some difficulties that you can solve or at least identify to some extent.

Here are some common aircon problems and their causes, as well as some troubleshooting advice. We’re urging you once again to consult your manual for brand-specific issues and solutions.

1. The indoor unit can’t receive the remote control signal, or the remote control does not appear to work.

• Pull out the plug. Reinsert the plug after about 3min, and then turn on the unit again. 
• The signal receiving range is typically 8 meters so consider operating it from nearer proximity.
• Remove obstacles. 
• Select proper angle and point the remote controller at the receiving window on the indoor unit. 
• Check the batteries. If the power of batteries is too low, please replace them. 
• Check the remote for signs of damage; it might be time to have it replaced.

2. No air emitted from the indoor unit.

• Is the air inlet or air outlet of the indoor unit is blocked? Eliminate obstacles.
• After reaching to set temperature, an indoor unit will stop blowing out air. Check the set temperature and try to adjust accordingly.

3. The aircon unit won’t turn on.

• Try reinserting the plug as it might be loose.
• Try a different setting on your aircon unit through your remote control.
• In case of a stripped wire, or a burnt fuse, unplug the device and contact your service provider immediately.

Disposal

So maybe it’s time to retire the old aircon. Maybe you have done your absolute best and had it checked out for repairs, but to no avail. After all, nothing lasts forever.

The question remains, how do you dispose of an air conditioner unit safely? 

Tossing your AC on the side of the road is neither responsible nor environmentally friendly. In fact, depending on where you reside, you may violate various laws or ordinances by doing so.

Here’s a list of choices for getting rid of an old aircon.

1. Think about selling or donating it.

If your present aircon is still in good working order and you’re merely disposing of it to upgrade, don’t throw it away! Instead, you can sell it to someone who might need it. 

Alternatively, you may give it to a local charity. Not only will you feel fantastic about giving anything to a worthy cause, but the nonprofit you chose may even pick it up from your home, addressing your disposal issue.

2. Request that your appliance dealer take it up.

When you’re ready to buy a new AC, ask your appliance dealer whether they can provide disposal of your old one. As a courtesy, the dealer may agree to take your old unit as part of your purchase, especially if they are simultaneously delivering a new one to your home, anyway. If they don’t provide this service, don’t be reluctant to negotiate it as part of the deal.

3. Get in touch with your local junkyard.

If none of the aforementioned choices are viable, call your local junk store to see if they’ll buy it from you. If they’re licensed, these shops would have a protocol in place for disposing of the unit after stripping it of valuable parts.

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